German Tigers Bound For Afghanistan

The Bundeswehr will for the first time deploy Unterstützungshubschrauber Tiger combat helicopters to Afghanistan starting on 12 December, the German army announced today.

German army photo

The first two of a total of four Tigers from Kampfhubschrauberregiment (Combat Helicopter Regiment) 36 will be airlifted by leased Antonov An-124 from Leipzig/Halle airport to Mazer-e-Sharif on that date, followed a few days later by the two others.

Once they arrive in Afghanistan, the combat helicopters will be prepared for a full operational capability during the first quarter of 2013. In Afghanistan, the Tigers will be used to support ground troops, performing security and reconnaissance missions, show of force and fire support, serving as an airmobile reserve, and escorting other helicopters.